A nurse Is teaching a client who Is taking metronidazole. Which of the following sense alterations should the nurse Include as an adverse effect of metronidazole?
A. Hearing Loss
B. Alterations in touch
C. Metallic taste
D. Olfactory changes
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: C. Metallic taste
Explanation:
Metronidazole is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication commonly used to treat a variety of infections, including bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and certain gastrointestinal infections caused by anaerobic bacteria. It works by disrupting the DNA of the microorganisms, thereby inhibiting their growth and leading to cell death.
One of the well-known adverse effects of metronidazole is a metallic taste in the mouth. This is a common complaint among patients and is believed to be due to the way the drug is metabolized and excreted in the saliva. The exact mechanism behind this metallic taste is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the drug’s effect on the taste buds or the presence of the drug and its metabolites in the saliva.
The metallic taste associated with metronidazole can be bothersome but is generally not harmful. It usually resolves after the medication is discontinued. However, if it becomes particularly distressing, patients can try various strategies to manage this side effect, such as sucking on hard candies, chewing gum, or frequent rinsing of the mouth with water.
Other sense alterations listed in the options are not commonly associated with metronidazole. For instance:
- A. Hearing loss: This is not a typical adverse effect of metronidazole. Hearing loss can be associated with other medications, such as aminoglycosides, but not with metronidazole.
- B. Alterations in touch: While metronidazole can cause peripheral neuropathy with long-term use, which might affect touch sensation, this is not a common or primary sense alteration associated with the drug.
- D. Olfactory changes: Changes in smell are not commonly reported with metronidazole use. This type of side effect might be seen with other medications or conditions but is not typical for metronidazole.
In conclusion, the metallic taste is the primary sense alteration associated with metronidazole and is the correct answer to this question. It is important for nurses to inform patients about this potential side effect and reassure them that it is usually temporary and manageable.